SUMMER READING LIST

There are three books I'd like for you to purchase this summer and read (and respond to questions on this web site).

Boorstin, D.J. (1964). The Americans: The Colonial Experience.

Amazon.com has copies on sale for under $1.00

(On Monday, June 9th I bought the last copy on the shelf at Bookman's for $6)

Zinn, H. A People's History of the United States.

Again, Amazon has copies on sale starting at $9.00

You only need to read the first ten chapters in the Zinn book.

I ask that you log into this web site throughout the summer to look at questions I'd like you to respond to... It will be my way of checking periodically to see if you are reading and thinking.

My email address is:

mike@elderwire.com

Do not hesitate to email me with questions or comments.

Happy (summer) reading!!!

First Post on Readings -- Boorstin, "Colonial"

Please respond to five of the eight in the "comment" section of this post found at the bottom of these questions (and please sign you name!).

1. What is meant by the referenced, "City upon a hill?"

2. According to Boorstin's interpretation of Winthrop's speech, what was America's destiny?

3. In what way(s) were Puritans theologians (in society and not necessarily in terms of government)?

4. In what way(s) did Puritans lack open dialogue into theological questions?

5. "The failure of Puritans to develop a sense of toleration was both a source of weakness as well as a strength." Please comment.

6. In what way(s) is the the sermon "an American institution?"

7. What might living in a "wilderness" have to with influencing Puritan behavior?

8. Perhaps (according to Boorstin) the most distinctive of the sermon was what?

On pp. 14-15 please pay special attention to the description of the Puritan meeting  house as well as the sacrifices individuals made to attend.